Precepts of the samurai:

In the Japanese sword arts, we often come across what's described as the 21 kokoroe. In reality, there are probably as many precepts on samurai philosophy as there lived samurai, and studying them all would take more than a single lifetime to understand. However, for the modern times, we find that it has been simplified down to 21 important ones.

These 21 precepts are found in a book titled "Flashing Steel", by Masayuki Shimabukuro (Muso Jikiden Eishin Ryu - Hanshi, 8th dan) and Leonard J. Pellman.

These lessons are a common theme in any martial art, and apply just as aptly to life in general. Using these as a guide to daily life is a good way to build and refine one's character; it is a path to good martial spirit.

1. Know yourself.

(Jiko o shiru koto)

2. Always follow through on commitments.

(Jibun no kimeta koto wa saigo made jikkô suru koto)

3. Respect everyone.

(Ikanaru hito demo sonke suru koto)

4. Hold strong convictions that cannot be altered by your circumstances.

(Kankyo ni sayu sarenai tsuyoi shinnen o motsu koto)

5. Don't make an enemy of yourself.

(Mizu kara teki o tsukuranai koto)

6. Live without regrets.

(Koto ni oite kôkaisezu)

7. Be certain to make a good first impression.

(Hito to no deai o taisetsu ni suru koto)

8. Don't cling to the past.

(Miren o motanai koto)

9. Never break a promise.

(Yakusoku o yaburanai koto)

10. Don't depend on other people.

(Hito ni tayoranai koto)

11. Don't speak ill of others.

(Hito o onshitsu shinai koto)

12. Don't be afraid of anything.

(Ikanaku koto ni oite mo osorenai koto)

13. Respect the opinions of others.

(Hito no iken o soncho suru koto)

14. Have compassion and understanding for everyone.

(Hito ni taishite omoiyari o motsu koto)

15. Don't be impetuous.

(Karuhazumi ni koto o okosanai koto)

16. Even little things must be attended to.

(Chiisa na koto demo taisetsu ni suru koto)

17. Never forget to be appreciative.

(Kansha no kimochi o wasurenai koto)

18. Be first to seize the opportunity.

(Hito yori sossenshi kodo suru koto)

19. Make a desperate effort.

(Issho kenmei monogoto o suru koto)

20. Have a plan for your life.

(Jinsei no mokuhyo o sadameru koto)

21. Never lose your "Beginner's Spirit".

(Shoshin o wasurubekarazaru koto)